4. Vomiting Blood: A Stark Warning Sign
Vomiting is never a pleasant experience, but when blood is involved, it can be downright alarming. When someone with PUD vomits blood, it indicates that the ulcer has eroded into a blood vessel. The blood can vary in appearance from bright red, suggesting fresh bleeding, to a dark, coffee-ground consistency, which is indicative of older blood that has interacted with stomach acid.
Vomiting blood, or hematemesis, is a serious symptom. Left untreated, significant blood loss can occur, leading to other complications, including anemia.
This, in turn, can cause fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Furthermore, significant blood loss can be life-threatening, emphasizing the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if this symptom arises.
Several factors can cause a person with PUD to vomit blood. It might be due to the ulcer eroding into a larger blood vessel or the stomach’s lining becoming inflamed and ulcerated. Other factors, like the consumption of NSAIDs or alcohol, can exacerbate this symptom, further stressing the importance of understanding potential triggers and risk factors.
It’s vital to get a prompt diagnosis if vomiting blood occurs. Medical interventions might include endoscopy to determine the bleeding’s source and severity.(4)
